I may not have chosen to grow up in Maryland, but I did decide to continue to live here (and trust me, I have thought about moving away, California always sounds nice). There is just something about Maryland that keeps me here and keeps me happy. On this day, 380 years ago, the first European settlers landed on what is now known as the great state of Maryland. In honor of Maryland day, I bring you 15 reasons why Maryland is amazing (in no particular order and by no means, an all-encompassing list):

1. Who Loves Seasons?

We have all 4 seasons. Yes, while snow at the end of March is never ideal, it can quickly jump to the 70’s in no time. Maryland, you’re crazy. I like you, but you’re crazy.

2. Don’t Worry, Be Crabby

3. We Have It All

4. Fish Fun

The National Aquarium is in Maryland. No, not the Baltimore Aquarium, not the Maryland Aquarium, it is the National Aquarium. We don’t mess around when it comes to our fishies.

5. Two Words: Old Bay

I grew up putting this on everything… popcorn, pizza, crabs, french fries, chicken, macaroni and cheese, corn on the cob, potato chips… heck, I’ve even tried Old Bay ice cream. I used to work at McCormick & Company where I got to talk about Old Bay everyday AND it was encouraged. Can you say dream job?

6. Maryland is Really Funny Shape

Which obviously makes for great jewelry.

Photo Credit: @kparkphotography on @routeoneapparel Instagram page

7. The Flag

We have this crazy, yet beautiful flag. It’s yellow. It’s red. It’s in your face. Who came up with this pattern? I like it. Plus it makes for some great clothing and accessories. Thank you Route One Apparel.

8. All The Historic Towns

Annapolis, Baltimore, Frederick, Old Ellicott City, and so much more. Some of my favorite times are spent wandering historic main streets exploring the shops and restaurants (and apparently I like to take photos of couples holding hands in these places too).

9. Not North, Not South

We’re not quite “Northern,” we’re not quite “Southern,” which means when we head north or south, we don’t quite fit in, but the silver lining is that no one strongly dislikes us for that reason.

10. That Being Said… Location, Location, Location

While Maryland is great, variety is the spice of life. We are within close proximity to many other top US cities. Wherever you might be in Maryland, you could wake up one morning and take a day trip to DC, Philadelphia, NYC, and more. No big deal.

11. Maryland Beer

Flying Dog, Heavy Seas, Union Brewery, DuClaw, Brewer’s Alley, and so many other craft brewers. It’s easier to “buy local” when your local beer is top notch.

12. Berger Cookies

You can only find them here in Maryland. They are rich and decadent and so worth it.

13. Weird County Pride

I have not met many other people in the US that have quite as much county pride as Maryland residents. I’ve actually met people from other states that have no idea what county they are in. Nonetheless, we rep the counties we grew up or live in like no other (hailing from hocofoshoyo, now with bmore cred).

14. My Wallet is Apathetic

It might not be cheap to reside here, but it sure is cheaper than DC.

15. This is Birdland

Through thick and through thin, we support our Baltimore Orioles and Ravens.

Originally Posted on BSinBMORE on March 25, 2014. For more Maryland pride and other travels, head over to my Instagram.